On January 1, 1961, “Duke” label released “Two Steps from the Blues”, the debut Bobby Bland album. It was recorded 1956 – 1960, at “Universal Recording Corporation” in Chicago, Illinois, and was produced by Don Robey.

Personnel:

• Bobby Bland – vocal (the scintillating voice)
• Clarence Holloman  – guitar
• Wayne Bennett  – guitar
• Hamp Simmons  – bass
• John “Jabo” Starks  – drums
• Teddy Reynolds  – piano
• Robert Skinner  – tenor saxophone
• L. A. Hill  – tenor saxophone
• Rayfield Devers  – baritone saxophone
• Joe Scott  – trumpet, arranger
• Melvin Jackson  – trumpet
• Pluma Davis  – trombone
• Rene Williams – design
• Dzondria LaIsac – design, liner notes

Track listing:

1. Two Steps from the Blues – Don D. Robey, John Riley Brown
2. Cry Cry Cry – Don D. Robey
3. I’m Not Ashamed – Don D. Robey, Joseph Scott
4. Don’t Cry No More – Don D. Robey
5. Lead Me On – Don D. Robey
6. I Pity the Fool – Deadric Malone
7. I’ve Just Got to Forget You – Don D. Robey
8. Little Boy Blue – Charles Harper
9. St. James Infirmary – traditional, credited to Joe Primrose
10. I’ll Take Care of You – Brook Benton
11. I Don’t Want No Woman – Don D. Robey
12. I’ve Been Wrong So Long – Don D. Robey, Ray Agee